System and method for setting functions according to location

ABSTRACT

An apparatus, system, and method for controlling functions of a vehicular alarm. The method includes receiving one or more signals including location information, determining a location of the vehicle using the location information, setting one or more functions based on the location information, determining whether an alarm function is activated, and activating the one or more functions according to the setting upon determining that an alarm has been activated. The method may further include using GPS data or signals transmitted from one or more base stations (e.g., from cellular telephone base stations, computer networks, proprietary transmitters, etc.) to determine the position of the apparatus (e.g., installed in the vehicle). The apparatus may also inform a user of regulations relating to an area dependent upon its location.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a confirmation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/301,079, filed Nov. 21, 2011 which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/819,951, filed Jun. 21, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No.8,093,998 which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/001,145, filed Dec. 10, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,755,472, thecontents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to system for setting functionsin vehicles, and more particularly to an apparatus and method foractivating various functions based on location.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

As conventional vehicular alarm systems become more commonplace, theiraccompanying annoyances have correspondingly increased. Thus, althoughconventional active vehicular alarm systems are designed to drawattention, they may do so repeatedly and for the wrong reason. Whenactivated, conventional alarms use lights, or audible alarms (such assirens, horns, speakers, etc.) and/or wirelessly page an owner.Unfortunately, conventional vehicular alarm systems are not alwaysperfect, and frequently experience false alarms which can contribute tonoise pollution impacting the quality of life of many people, especiallythose in urban areas. Each year it is estimated that millions of dollarsin cities alone are lost because of noise pollution. Accordingly, as caralarms are a contributing factor to noise pollution (especially when analarm cycles on through the night) municipalities have enactedordinances to control and/or ban certain types of car alarms (e.g.,those with audible alarms). It has been said that the noise pollutionemitted by car alarms is responsible for hundreds of millions of dollarsof lost income each year.

Conventional vehicle alarm systems are known to commonly experiencefalse alarms for many reasons. For example, some alarms can be triggeredby air gusts, vibration, loud noises, partially open doors, windows,hoods, and/or trunks, low voltage, sensor malfunctions, etc., which canbe a nuisance. For example, a defective switch periodically triggeringan alarm of a vehicle parked in an urban setting, such as a residentialNew York City street, would be a nuisance to those within range of thealarm's siren. Accordingly, there is a need for an alarm system thatwould prevent the creation of a nuisance. There is also a need for analarm system that can prevent the theft of a vehicle.

Accordingly, there is a need for a vehicular alarm systems whosefunctions can be controlled to avoid the problems and disadvantages ofthe prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to solve theabove-noted and other problems of conventional vehicular alarm systemsand to provide a mobile device (e.g., an alarm system) and a method forprotecting vehicles and setting and/or resetting various alarm functionsautomatically based on location data. It is another aspect of thepresent invention to provide an alarm system with means to comply withlocal ordinances without the user's intervention.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a system and amethod for enabling a user to set and/or reset various alarm settingsbased on the user's desire.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a systemand a method setting an alarm system's functions using location data andan optional look-up table to set various functions of a vehicular alarmsystem to location-specific settings.

The present invention provides a system and a method for ideally settingvarious functions of a vehicular alarm system. Accordingly, it is anobject of the present invention to provide a mobile station including aplurality of controllable functions, including a receiver which receivesone or more signals which include location information; and a controllerwhich receives location information from the receiver; determines thelocation of the mobile station using the location information; sets oneor more functions of the mobile station based on the locationinformation; and activates the one or more functions based upon thesetting. The controller may also enter an alarm mode and thereafterdetermine whether a triggering event has occurred (e.g., a triggersignal is generated). The controller may activate the one or morefunctions when the controller determines that a trigger signal has beengenerated and displays information relating to regulations correspondingto the location. The controller may also set the one or more functionsbased upon the regulations. The one or more functions may, for example,correspond to an audible device function, an ignition/run function, awindow function, a light function, a lock function, a paging function, aprivacy function, an energy refilling function, and a valet function.The mobile station may function as a vehicle security system and disableor restrict operation of the vehicle when the controller is in an alarmmode or, for example, after a triggering event has occurred.

Moreover, the one or more settings can be set using the location dataand a predetermined setting. Further, the predetermined setting can beprogrammed at the time of manufacture, programmed by a user, and/orreceived from a base station or a satellite. The alarm can be activatedusing a sensor or a wireless transmission. Moreover, the alarm systemcan determine whether the alarm was activated wirelessly, and can thenactivate the functions according to the determination. It is furthercontemplated that if the alarm is activated wirelessly, a first set offunctions is activated, and if the alarm is set using a sensor, adifferent set of functions is activated. In yet other aspects of thepresent invention, if the alarm is activated using a wirelesstransmission, an audible alarm sounds according to a predeterminedroutine. Additionally, the alarm system can determine whether a triggersignal has been received, and trigger the alarm system if it is detectedthat a trigger signal has been received.

It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a controlsystem for a vehicle, including a receiver which receives one or moresignals which include location information; and a controller whichreceives location information from the receiver; determines the locationof the vehicle using the location information; sets one or morefunctions of the vehicle based on the location information; determineswhether to set an alarm of the vehicle; determines whether one or moretrigger signals is detected; and activates the one or more functionsbased upon the setting, when it is determined that a trigger eventsignal has been generated. The trigger event signal may be generated byat least one of a window sensor, a door sensor, a sound sensor, amovement sensor, and a wireless signal. Further, according to thepresent invention, the controller may display information relating toregulations corresponding to the location and/or set the one or morefunctions based upon the regulations. The functions, may for example,relate to a horn function, a speaker function, an ignition/run function,a window function, a light function, a lock function, a paging function,a door function, an energy refilling function, a privacy function, and avalet function. The controller may output information corresponding to apresent location upon determining that the location of the vehicle haschanged or that, for example, certain regulations have changed from aprevious location. Further, the controller may restrict operation of thevehicle when a trigger event signal is detected.

It is also contemplated that the system according to the presentinvention can receive one or more signals including the locationinformation from a Global Positioning System (GPS) and/or one or morebase stations. The system can also include means for determining whetherthe location information is received from one or more terrestrialtransmitters, and for determining location using a triangulationroutine. The system can also include means for receiving alarm settinginformation, including information relating to the one or more functionsof the system. The system may also include means for activating andmeans for setting the one or more functions, including at least one of asiren setting, a light setting, an activation setting, a paging setting,a reset setting, an “on/off” setting, and a sensor setting.

According to the present invention, it is also contemplated that thesettings can be set in accordance with location data and/or one or morepredetermined settings. These predetermined settings can includesettings that are programmed at the time of manufacture, programmed by auser, and/or received from a base station or a satellite. The system canbe activated using a sensor or a wireless transmission such as thoseemitted from a key fob.

It is also contemplated that the system can determine whether an alarmfunction was activated wirelessly and can activate functions accordingto the determination. For example, if the alarm function is activatedwirelessly, a first set of functions is activated, and if the alarm isset using a sensor, a different set of functions is activated. By thismethod, if the alarm is triggered using a wireless transmission, anaudible alarm sound can sound, whereas if the alarm system automaticallyactivates, then an audible sound would not be produced.

It is a further aspect of the present invention to determine whether oneor more trigger signals has been received while in the active alarmstate, and to activate the functions of the alarm system according to apredetermined routine if it is determined that a trigger signal has beenreceived.

It is yet a further aspect of the present invention to provide a methodfor controlling functions of a vehicular alarm system, the methodincluding receiving one or more signals including location information,determining a location of the vehicle using the location information,and setting one or more functions of the alarm system based on thelocation information, such that the one or more functions can beactivated according to the setting.

It is an additional aspect of the present invention to provide a methodfor controlling a vehicle, including receiving, using a receiver, one ormore signals which include location information; and receiving, using acontroller, location information from the receiver; determining, usingthe controller, the location of the vehicle using the locationinformation; setting, using the controller, one or more functions of thevehicle based on the location information; and activating, using thecontroller, the one or more functions based upon the setting. The methodmay further include activating, by the controller, an alarm andthereafter determining whether a trigger event has occurred, wherein thetrigger event generated by one or more of an infrared or ultrasonicsensor, a door sensor, a window sensor, an ignition sensor, a pressuresensor, and a movement sensor. The method may further includeactivating, using the controller, the one or more functions when it isdetermined that a trigger event has occurred. The method may alsoinclude outputting via a speaker or a display an energy refilling optionwhen it is detected that the vehicle has entered an energy refillingarea or displaying information relating to regulations corresponding tothe location of the vehicle. Further, the method may also includesetting, using the controller, the one or more functions based upon theregulations, wherein the one or more functions relate to a hornfunction, a speaker function, an ignition/run function, a windowfunction, a light function, a lock function, a paging function, a doorfunction, an energy refilling function, a privacy function, and a valetfunction.

The alarm system according to the present invention can also obtainlocation data and determine the location of the alarm system using thelocation data, and can then set the one or more functions based on thelocation data

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is herein described, by way of example only, withreference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a vehicular alarm according tothe present invention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a vehicle transmitting/receivingdata from various transmitters according to the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating the operations of the alarm systemaccording to the present invention;

FIGS. 4A and 4B each illustrate a block diagram illustrating theoperation of the present invention using one or more broadcast signals;

FIGS. 5A-5H each illustrate a screen shot of a graphics display screenfor informing of alarm function settings;

FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating the operations of the alarm systemaccording to the present invention is shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating the operations of the alarm systemaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a flow chart illustrating the operations of the alarm systemaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating the operations of the alarm systemaccording to the present invention;

FIGS. 10A-10C are block diagrams illustrating alarm systems according tothe present invention;

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a conventional alarm modulecoupled with a restriction module according to the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a vehicle including aconventional alarm module and a restriction module communicating withgarage signal according to the present invention;

FIG. 13A is a block diagram illustrating a moving vehicle on a roadwayaccording to the present invention; and

FIG. 13B is a screen shot illustrating operations determined by thesystem according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described indetail with reference to the drawings. For the sake of clarity, certainfeatures of the invention will not be discussed when they would beapparent to those with skill in the art.

A block diagram illustrating a vehicular alarm according to the presentinvention is shown in FIG. 1. The alarm system includes at least onemobile station 10 (hereinafter alarm system 10) which includes acontroller 24, an optional display 20, a memory 18, a GPS (globalpositioning system) module 16, sensors 12, an alarm function generator26, a transceiver (or optional receiver) 28, and an antenna 30. Thealarm system 10 can include any or all of the various components or caninterface with external components to obtain necessary data. Forexample, the alarm system can interface with another computer (e.g., anon-board GPS system) via a PC (Personal Computer) interface, an RS 232serial interface, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface, a GPIO(General Purpose Input Output) interface, a Bluetooth interface, etc.,as necessary to transmit and/or receive necessary data. Further, thesystem according to the present invention may store, receive, process,upload, and/or download data using a network. Accordingly, the presentinvention may be compatible with, network systems such as, for example,the conventional On-Star™ information systems. Accordingly, for example,one or more components of the system according to the present inventionmay be located remotely from others.

The controller 24 controls the overall operation of the alarm system 10and can interface with the optional display 20, the memory 18, the GPSmodule 16, the sensors 12, the alarm function generator 26, thetransceiver 28, and the antenna 30. The sensors 12 can interface withthe controller 24 and provide and/or receive information to/or from thecontroller.

The sensors 12 can include one or more of motion sensors (e.g.,vibration sensors, wheel speed sensors, magnetic sensors,accelerometers, etc.), door sensors, window sensors, ultrasonic and/oracoustic detectors (e.g., microphones and/or audio transceivers),voltage sensors, ignition-switch deactivation sensors, etc., as is knownin the art. The sensors 12 can output a desired signal to the controller24. Additionally, sensors 12 can include a sensor for generating and/orreceiving signals indicative of an ignition on condition (e.g.,ignition-on indicator), an alarm off/deactivation input (that can beused to turn the alarm system off and/or deactivate it, etc.), awindow-open indicator (to indicate an open window), a door-openindicator (indicative of an open door), a time signal input (forgenerating a signal indicating a predetermined time period has expired),a polling/interrupt signal (that can be used to interrupt thecontroller, etc.), and/or other signals as necessary to control thealarm system 10 according to the present invention. For the sake ofclarity, as alarm sensors are well known in the art, they will not bediscussed in further detail. Further, the controller may communicatewith one or more of the sensors 12, the triangulator 14, the GPS module16, the memory 18, the display 20, the KB 22, the alarm functiongenerator 26, and the transceiver 28 using optical, wired and/orwireless means.

The antenna 30 can include one or more antennas for transmitting and/orreceiving signals to/or from the alarm system 10. For example, theantenna (or antennas) can receive cellular communications signals, fromone or more transmitters (e.g., base stations (BSs), application points(APs), nodes (e.g., node Bs), etc.) such as those that are used forconventional cellular communications, e.g., GPS signals, magnetic fieldstrength signals (e.g., magnetic field directions signals, etc.), andother desired signals (e.g., desired frequencies, etc.). Additionally,the antenna 30 can include diversity-type antennas.

The transceiver 28 receives signals from the antenna 30 and candownconvert (and/or otherwise process received signals such as byamplifying, etc.) the received signals, as required, and transmit thesignals, which may be processed, to the controller 24. For example, if amodulated signal is received such as a radio frequency (RF) signal, thenthe transceiver 28 can downconvert (and/or amplify) the modulated signalto a desired frequency such as an intermediate frequency (IF) signal orother signal as desired. In a similar fashion, the transceiver 28 canupconvert signals (e.g., IF) it receives from the controller 24 andtransmit the upconverted (e.g., RF) signals via the antenna 30.Accordingly, the alarm system 10, according to the present invention,may receive data, voice, magnetic field signals, etc., as desired.

The optional triangulator 14 receives one or more signals received bythe antenna 30 (e.g., signals received from a plurality of BSs and/orGPS signals) via the transceiver 28 and controller 24 and usestriangulation methods to triangulate the position of the alarm system10. Such triangulation methods are known in the art and, for the sake ofclarity, will not be discussed further.

The GPS module 16 receives GPS signals from the antenna 30 via thetransceiver 28 and the controller 24, and optionally determines thelocation of the alarm system 10 using the received signals. The GPSmodule may also use AGPS (Assisted GPS) or other location assistancedata to determine its location.

The accelerometer included within the sensors 32 can include one or moreaccelerometers (oriented in one or more axes) for providing accelerationdata corresponding to one or more axis to various components of thealarm system 10 as necessary. For example, acceleration data may be usedby the GPS module 16 and/or the triangulator 14 to determine theposition of the alarm system 10. The acceleration data can also be usedto determine whether the vehicle is moving and to trigger an alarm (aswill be discussed later) based on the determination. Additionally, theaccelerometer may be used to provide data for other vehicular componentsvia an external output (not shown). For example, accelerometer data canbe used by on-board control systems (e.g., stability control systems,anti-lock braking systems (ABS), steering control systems, etc.,) asnecessary.

The memory 18 interfaces with the controller 24 and can provide a memoryfor the operations of the control system. For example, the memory canstore control data, look-up tables, user settings, operating commands,application programs, audio data, map data, location data, sensor data,etc. The memory 18 can include a hard disc, a read-only memory (ROM), arandom access memory (RAM), a flash memory, an external memory (e.g., amemory card), etc., as desired. The memory cards can be preprogrammedaccording to location. For example, memory cards can be obtained from alocal motor vehicle office and can contain operating commands. Anoptional reader (e.g., a laser reader—not shown) can be used to readvarious data from a printed bar code or other printed code to set thevarious functions of the alarm system. A motor vehicle registrationsticker may include data indicative of the capabilities and the settingsof the vehicle alarm system. This information can then be scanned andused by the vehicle alarm system according to the present invention.

The keyboard (KB) input 22 can include one or more functions keys,alphanumeric keys, a touch-screen input, a wireless input, a track ball,mouse, and/or other input device, for entering commands to control thealarm system 10.

The optional display 20 interfaces with the controller 24 and caninclude a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic LED (OLED), anelectroluminescent (EL) display, etc., as desired. The display can beused to display operating status, settings, user inputs (e.g., via theKB), etc. of the alarm system 10.

The optional alarm function generator 26 can receive inputs from thecontroller and can generate signals necessary to drive various elementsof the alarm system 10. For example, the alarm function generator 26 canprovide a signal to drive an alarm (e.g., a siren, speaker, etc.),various lights (e.g., the vehicle's lights, either internal orexternal), ignition cut-off switches, ignition-on switches, locationsystems (e.g., LoJack™, LoJack™-type systems or the like), pagersystems, etc., for indicating and/or drawing attention to the vehicle asnecessary. The alarm function generator 26 may also provide a signal tobe transmitted to desired receivers (e.g., the police, emergencypersonnel, etc.) via any of the controller 24, the transceiver 28, theantenna 30, and/or other means. The controller 24 may also transmit adesired signal using the antenna 30 via the transceiver 28, or can useother types of communicators. For example, a Bluetooth™-typecommunication device (not shown) may interface with the alarm system 10(e.g., at the controller 24), and may used to transmit data as desired.

For example, using the Bluetooth communication device, a user mayupload/download various data (e.g., alarm system settings, functions,status, alarm events, etc.) from the alarm system 10, as desired, usinga mobile communication device (e.g., a mobile phone, a PALM™-typedevice, a computer, etc.). Additionally, third parties (e.g., emergencypersonnel, police officers, etc.) may obtain data about a vehicle asdesired. This data may be disseminated on a need-to-know basis or in anotherwise limited manner. In this way, law enforcement personal mayobtain data about a vehicle as they approach it. For example, during atraffic stop, as a police officer approaches a stolen vehicle, he may bewarned by the alarm system 10 via a police-issued radio that the vehiclemay be stolen so that he may respond appropriately. This can be criticalwhen dealing with dangerous situations and/or persons. Accordingly, whena vehicle is determined to be stolen (e.g., by the alarm system 10, orvia a signal received via the transceiver), the controller may respondappropriately. In alternative embodiments, the alarm system 10 may useother transmitting schemes (e.g., CDMA, etc.) to transmit and/or receivesignals.

A block diagram illustrating a vehicle transmitting/receiving data fromvarious transmitters according to the present invention is shown in FIG.2. A vehicle 54 including an alarm system according to the presentinvention receives signals from BSs which cover corresponding areas46-54 (e.g., BSs 46-BS, 48-BS, 50-BS, and 52-BS, respectively).Additionally, other transmitters and/or GPS satellites (or other typesof satellites) 42 and 44 can be used to cover corresponding areas andcan be used to transmit (and/or receive) data to/or from the alarmsystem. As such, the alarm system can obtain necessary signals and usetriangulation techniques, AASA, GPS, etc., to calculate and/or otherwiseobtain its location. Optionally, the location of the alarm system 10 canbe determined at a location that is remote from the alarm system 10(e.g., by a transmission system), in which case the calculated locationcan then be transmitted to the alarm system 10. Optionally, the alarmsystem 10 can receive a signal transmitted from a transmitter 56 thatindicates that the vehicle is in a specific alarm zone (i.e., a specificarea).

A flow chart illustrating the operations of the alarm system accordingto the present invention is shown in FIG. 3. Flowchart 300 may includeone or more of steps 100-120. In step 100, an alarm system according tothe present invention determines whether an alarm is activated. Theactivation process can be initiated according to a predeterminedroutine. For example, when an ignition-off signal is received by thecontroller 24 from, for example, the sensor module 12, and a signalindicating that the driver's door (or any other door) has been openedand is presently shut (since the alarm system has been toggled from theon to the off position), the alarm system can be activated.Additionally, when an appropriate signal is received (e.g., theignition-off signal), the alarm system 10 can activate after a giventime period (e.g., 20 seconds—which can be determined by location, etc.,or immediately) as desired. Additionally, the alarm system may activatewhen, for example, an optional passenger detector detects that there areno passengers in the vehicle and the ignition is optionally off, etc.Additionally, the alarm system 10 can activate when a remote command isreceived or after a given time period, etc, and may use a signalindicative of a operational key (e.g., an actual key being in theignition switch or an RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) key) beingin a location that is proximate to the alarm system sensor. In otherwords, the alarm system can be activated according to various sensoryinputs and received signals either alone or in combination with eachother and according to location, time or other indicator (e.g., actualtime, date, countdown period, vehicle in park, parking brake activated,driver's door opened and shut, an alarm activation signal received froma remote key fob, etc., or combinations thereof, etc.). For example, incertain areas it may be desirable to activate an alarm after 10 seconds;accordingly, location data corresponding to the area can command thealarm system 10 to activate after 10 seconds. Additionally, whenactivating, the alarm system 10 can activate functions as desired andcan optionally activate various functions according to locationinformation (location data). For example, the alarm system can activatean audible generator (e.g., a horn, etc.), and/or lights, for example,when arming, to indicate its status, according to location. Thus, whenarming in an area in which it is prohibited to honk a horn, the alarmsystem would not honk the horn to indicate activation status.

In step 102, location data is received. The alarm system may receivelocation data as desired. Thus, the alarm system 10 may receivetriangulation data, one or more pilot signal(s), a message, and/or GPSdata, as available and/or according to a predetermined method (e.g.,triangulation data first, then GPS data, etc., or vice versa, etc). Thealarm system may also receive a signal indicative of a certain area (aswill be described below). The alarm system may also receive currentlocation data. For example, the GPS module may calculate the position ofthe vehicle on a continual basis (e.g., for display on, for example, thedisplay for use during operation of the vehicle). When the alarm systemis activated, the location data including the location data may be usedby the alarm system to determine location.

In step 104, it is optionally determined whether the desired locationdata is received. For example, if the desired location data is a GPSdata, then if GPS data is received, the location of the alarm system 10is determined using the received data in step 106. However, if thedesired location data is not received in step 104, an attempt to receiveother location data (e.g., triangulation data, etc.) can be attempted,in step 112. The controller may use various sensor(s) (e.g., anaccelerometer, etc.), as necessary to determine its location andgenerate location data. Additionally, stored location data (e.g.,previous location data, default location data, etc.) may be used insteadof real-time location data. For example, as described above, locationdata may be obtained from a GPS navigation system in the vehicle whenthe alarm system is activated. Accordingly, the alarm system may obtainlocation information from the navigation system at any time, asnecessary. Furthermore, the controller may use the transceiver in anattempt to receive (real-time) location data. Triangulation data mayalso be received, from transmitters serving a particular area, togenerate location data. For example, the alarm system may receivesignals from certain transmitters and then transmit informationcorresponding to the received signals to the transmitters which use thereceived information to calculate the location of the alarm system andgenerate and transmit location data to the alarm system. Thetransmitters may be cellular phone transmitters such as base transmittersystem (BTS) transmitters. Additionally, the location data may includeAASA GPS data received from, for example, the cellular BTSs. In step114, the alarm system determines whether desired location data wasreceived. If desired location data was received, the alarm systemcontinues to step 106. However, if desired location data was notreceived, the alarm system repeats step 112, and can either attempt toobtain a different type of location data or can attempt to receive thesame type of location data (e.g., triangulation data rather than GPSdata).

Returning back to step 104, if the desired location data is received(and if, for example, the location of the alarm system has not yet beendetermined), the location of the alarm system 10 is optionallydetermined in step 106. However, if the alarm system receives itslocation via another system (e.g., receives its location via a networkor receives a signal indicative of a certain area without having todetermine its location), the alarm system may not have to perform thisstep.

In step 110, the alarm system 10 loads area data. The area data may beincluded in the location data or may be stored separately. For example,the location data may include a message indicating an area, a cell, alocation, etc. The message indicating the area may also contain alarmfunction data (as will be described below with respect to Table 1).However, the alarm system may also be programmed (e.g., at the time ofmanufacture and/or at other times, e.g., yearly, etc.) with alarmfunction data which is optionally associated with alarm area data. Thus,using the area data, the alarm system can use the look-up table todetermine corresponding alarm function settings. This can reduce networkloading.

In step 116, alarm functions are set according to the area data. Forexample if the area data corresponds with an urban location (e.g. NewYork City), then the functions of the alarm system are set according tothe location.

In step 118, it is determined whether the alarm was triggered. If thedetermination in step 118 is positive, step 120 the process continues tostep 120. However, if the determination is negative step 118 may berepeated.

In step 120 the alarm system activates functions according tocorresponding settings. The process may then repeat step 118, 110, mayexit the process (e.g., if deactivated for example, by a user).

According to the present invention, depending upon the set functions ofthe alarm system, different sensors may be used to activate and/ortrigger the alarm system while other sensors or at least some of theirdata can be ignored. Thus, for example, assuming that in a certain arearegulations restrict triggering an alarm using a motion sensor and alsorestrict the output of an audible alarm (such as the horn) whentriggered, the alarm system would not be triggered by the motion sensorinput and, if triggered, would not output an audible alarm. Thus, duringactivation or when triggered, the alarm system (unless overridden)activates and/or triggers in accordance with the area data, and drivesfunctions such as alarms, lights, windows, wireless transmitters, etc.,in accordance with the area (and/or a user's or systems setting). Forexample, with reference to Table 1, if the alarm functions are set tothe Hospital area, then the alarm would be triggered for 60 seconds andthe horn would not be activated. Additionally, different functions ofthe alarm system can also be activated for varying periods of time asdesired. For example, the horn can be activated for 10 seconds, thelights can be activated for 90 seconds, and the police can be alerted(e.g., wirelessly) for an extended period of time (for example, twodays, at, for example, predetermined time periods, etc.), so that thevehicle may be located. Additionally, the functions can include historydata for storing various data relating to the alarm system. Thus, usinghistory data, the controller can optionally determine, for example,whether the alarm system has been triggered a certain number of timeswithin a predetermined period of time and control the alarm systemappropriately by, for example, deactivating and/or ignoring certainsensors and/or their output. Thus, a malfunctioning sensor can bedeactivated and/or ignored to prevent false alarms.

The alarm system can deactivated and/or a triggered state can beset/reset using various inputs, as desired. For example, an inputtransmitted from a remote controller such as, for example, a key fob,when received, can, for example, control or otherwise deactivate thealarm system from an activated state. Moreover, other inputs such as anignition-on indicator, a door-lock-activated indicator, etc., can beused to deactivate and/or end a triggered state, as desired. Forexample, if a user cycles a door-lock cylinder 3 times in 5 seconds, thealarm system may be deactivated. This can be convenient, for example, ifa battery of a user's key fob lacks sufficient power to transmit adesired signal such as an alarm deactivation signal. The controller canalso determine when to deactivate the alarm using various sensoryinputs, as desired, and which are not discussed here for the sake ofclarity.

It should be noted that although a given order is shown in the flowchartof FIG. 3, this order may not have to be followed and various steps maybe skipped and/or performed in a different order. For example, thelocation data may be received with or without the area data, in whichcase the location and corresponding alarm data can be determined in asingle step. For example, the location data may contain locationinformation such as longitude and latitude which can be used todetermine if the alarm system is located in a predetermined area. Thealarm system can then set its functions according to the predeterminedarea. For example, the alarm system may compare its present locationwith predetermined information (e.g., information indicating the alarmsystem is located in a hospital area, etc.) and set its functionsaccordingly.

Furthermore, if using a cell identification, the exact location of thealarm system does not have to be determined. For example, if it isdetermined that the alarm system is located in an area served by acertain base station (BS), a signal determined as having arriving fromthis BS may be sufficient to determine the location of the alarm system.Moreover, certain BSs may transmit location data that can be used todetermine an approximate location of the vehicle and may also be used toobtain location data for setting functions, etc., of the alarm system.For example, a BS may broadcast its location, information indicating anarea, e.g., area 01 and/or alarm system function settings, using forexample, flags.

A look-up table can also be used to determine alarm-function settings.For example, if the proper conditions exist for the alarm system toactivate (e.g., a predetermined interval passes after a given conditionexists, etc.), the alarm system may determine that it is located in adefault area “0,” and set functions corresponding to area 0, as shown inTable 1 below. In other words, when the alarm is activated (optionallyaccording to area information, etc.), a horn function (or other audiblesource) may be functional when necessary (i.e., a horn will honk whenthe alarm system is triggered), vehicle lights may be functional whennecessary (e.g., lights will flash when necessary), an ignitionimmobilizer may be activated, windows may be shut upon alarm activation,a valet setting is set to off, door locks are locked, a wireless pageris activated, and a vehicle status (e.g., location, speed, etc.) may besent to desired locations (e.g., the police, the owner, etc.) if thevehicle is stolen to aid in the location of the vehicle. Likewise, ifthe alarm system detects that it is in home area “1,” then the alarm isnot activated (e.g., when the vehicle is parked), the vehicle's windowsmay be closed and all other functions are not actuated—i.e., the doorlocks are not activated, etc. so that a user can conveniently enter thevehicle in the secure home area. Further, the system according to thepresent invention may set functions and/or obtain location informationat any time, as desired.

The alarm system may also detect its distance to buildings and otherobjects, such that when the vehicle is within a certain distance of apredetermined building, certain functions may not be activated. Forexample, if the alarm system detects that it is within 200 feet of anoffice building, then the horn would not be functional when the alarmsystem is activated (or triggered). Likewise, similar settings can beused in a school and/or hospital setting, as desired. The distance tothe building (or other object) can be calculated using GPS (e.g., usinglongitude and latitude data), triangulation, pre-determined map data(e.g., indicating the location of objects such as buildings, schools inthe vicinity of the alarm system, etc.), and/or other signals.Accordingly, the alarm system can calculate its position and compare itsposition with map data to determine the distance between an object andthe alarm system.

Moreover, signal generators may also be used to transmit a predeterminedsignal (e.g., a pilot signal, broadcast signal, etc.) such that when thealarm system receives this predetermined signal, it can determine thatit is within a certain predefined area (e.g., a hospital, school, aquiet zone, etc.). For example, a hospital can use a signal generator togenerate an alarm-restricting signal. The alarm system upon receivingthis restricting signal, would set its functions to correspond to therestriction signal (e.g., to a quiet mode in which a siren and/or hornis not activated when the alarm is activated and/or triggered). The areacovered by the restricting signal can be controlled to cover apredetermined area as desired.

Additionally, the alarm system may have one or more user settings thatallow a user to customize various settings, as desired. The user mayalso set a work and/or home (or other) setting(s) according to location,etc., as desired. The alarm system functions may also be set accordingto time, location, proximity, etc., as desired. Thus, during the day,certain functions may be activated as desired (e.g., see, area “5”setting). Likewise, if the alarm system detects that it is in a garage,it may set various settings accordingly, as desired.

Although the garage setting can be activated by using a table look-up todetermine location, the garage setting may also be determined using byusing a transmitter, located in, for example, the garage, that transmitsa signal that indicates that the alarm system is in the garage (or inparking area, etc.). In this regard, a local transmitter may be locatedin the garage and may be used to transmit a signal (e.g., an FM signalwhich can include a message and/or other information) to the alarmsystem to indicate that the vehicle is in (or is proximate to) thegarage. Such sensors may be stand-alone units or may be coupled to, forexample, a garage door opener or other transmitters. Thus, when a userdrives the vehicle including the alarm system of the present inventioninto the garage, the local FM signal (or other modulated signal, anoptical signal, etc.) may be transmitted to the alarm system. Uponreceiving the FM signal (which may include a message including areadata, a code, etc.), the alarm system may change its settings tocorrespond with the received signal. Accordingly, a garage door openerin a user's garage may be coupled to a local transmitter (e.g., an FMmodulator, an optical transmitter such as an infra-red transmitter asused on remote controls, a Bluetooth transmitter, etc.) for alerting thealarm system that the vehicle is in the garage (or other location).Accordingly, the alarm system may perform necessary control operations(e.g., operate various menus, set functions, etc.).

Additionally, the alarm system may indicate possible settings for a userto select before the alarm system can activate or upon activation of thealarm system. For example, when entering a commercial parking garage, avalet setting (and/or other settings) may be displayed on a displayscreen (e.g., a touch-screen display) and the user can select a desiredsetting. If the valet (or other setting) is selected then, for securitypurposes, a security code (or other input) may be necessary to enteranother setting. For example, after entering the valet mode, a securitycode may have to be input (through for example, the KB or the user'scellular telephone) to deactivate the valet setting (which can, forexample, lock the hood and/or trunk to prevent theft, and optionallyplace the engine in a low-power mode to prevent damage to the vehicle,shut the ignition if the vehicle travels a certain distance, etc., toprevent theft and/or unauthorized use of the vehicle).

A look-up table indicating alarm function settings is shown in Table 1below.

TABLE 1 AREA/ Alert time Function (sec) Type Activate Horn Lights Ig.Im. Window Valet Lock Wireless Police  0/90 Default Yes Yes Yes Yes YesNo Yes Yes Yes  1/90 Home No Act. — — Close No — — — Only  2/90 City-01Yes No Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes  3/90 Mall Yes >200′ Yes Yes Yes YesYes Yes Yes  4/90 Mall Yes <100′ Day Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes  5/90City-02 Yes Day Yes Yes No No Yes Yes Yes  6/90 Work Yes No Yes Yes NoNo Yes Yes Yes  7/90 City-03 Yes Yes Yes Yes Open- No Yes Yes Yes ifChild  8/90 Beach Yes No No Yes No No Yes Yes Yes  9/60 School Yes No NoYes Yes No Yes Yes Yes 10/90 Industrial Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes YesYes 11/90 Garage No — — — Open Yes Open — — 12/90 User 01 Yes Yes YesYes — Yes Yes Yes Yes default User 01 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes YesYes School User 01 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Work 13/90 User02 Yes No Yes No No No No No No 14/60 Hospital Yes No <60 s Yes Yes NoYes Yes Yes 15/90 Valet Yes No No No No Yes No No No 16/90 TEMP Yes YesYes Yes Yes No No Yes Yes

The “Type” settings may be activated according to a user and/orlocation, as desired. Accordingly, the User 01 setting may havecorresponding location settings. For example, a first user may have acustom school setting or a custom work setting as shown. Thus, when inthe User 01 School area, the alarm system will set its functionsaccording to the corresponding entries as shown.

Table 2 is a table illustrating an alternative look-up table.

TABLE 2 Alert time Area (seconds) Function Restricted 1 90 Lights andWireless Audible Alarm 2 90 Lights Audible Alarm and Wireless 3 60Lights Audible Alarm for >60 sec. 4 90 Lights, and Audible Audible Alarmif >1 Alarm <90 sec and Activation per Hour audio out <90 sec and 70 db.5 Non-applicable Lights and engine Engine Run >2 Warm Minutestemperature dependent.

As shown in Table 2, alarm functions can also be set for various timeperiods depending upon operation. For example, if the alarm system islocated in area 1 (for example, a densely populated New York Citystreet), the audible alarm function is restricted. However, the lightsand wireless paging system would remain active to indicate that an alarmis triggered.

Likewise, if in area 3, the lights and wireless paging functions wouldbe active. However, the audible alarm system would only remain activefor a time period which is, for example, less than or equal to 60seconds, after which the audible alarm would be deactivated. Similarly,if in area 5, the lights and engine warm (i.e., a function to optionallystart and run an engine to warm it up) would be available for less thanor equal to 2 minutes, after which the engine run would restricted. Inother words, the engine would be shut off after two minutes ofoperation. The alarm system may also include means to start the vehicle,upon receiving a proper command signal (e.g., from the user via anetwork, key fob, etc.). Moreover, other optional conditions may beused. For example, if the temperature is lower than 20 degrees, then theengine run time can be extended by either a predetermined time or by apredetermined factor. For example, for every unit decrease in outdoortemperature, a multiplier for multiplying a predetermined time may beused to obtain a new run time such that the engine run time can beextended in colder weather. Thus, if the multiplier is proportional tothe drop in temperature, a 10-degree drop would yield a multiplier of10. Accordingly, the base time (e.g., 2 minutes) can be multiplied bythe multiplier to obtain a 20-minute run time. This would be beneficialin colder environments where it may be desirable to warm an engine (andthe vehicle) before driving. However, in the summer when it is may notbe necessary to fully warm an engine before driving for longer periodsof time. However, a shortened run time may be desirable to reduceexhaust emission and/or noise pollution and comply with any motorvehicle regulations regarding engine-idle periods. Accordingly, thepresent invention may be used to enforce compliance with variousregulations. Additionally, the present invention may reduce fuel use andemissions. Thus, not only may vehicles be brought into compliance withvarious regulations, but cities in which the vehicles according to thepresent invention are located, may also comply with various regulations.

With reference to area 4, it is seen that the alarm system may alsoregulate the strength of the audible alarm such that it does not exceeda predetermined threshold (e.g., 70 db) as shown. The alarm system caninclude a signal limiter or may include feed back means to regulate theoutput of the audible alarm (e.g., the horn). Additionally, thecontroller may play various selections (e.g., songs, music scores, etc.)as desired by the user, at various events (e.g., such as alarmtriggering). These selections may be directly downloaded via ahard-wired connection or via a networked connection, as desired. Forexample, the selection may be obtained via a Bluetooth-equipped devicein the vehicle (e.g., an MPEG-3 player, etc.). An optional sensor (e.g.,using direct means of feedback) may be used by the controller of thealarm system to control a speaker output such that an audible soundgenerated to alert the user of a triggering event, etc. does not exceedthe predetermined threshold.

As shown, the look-up tables may correlate predetermined areas withcorresponding alarm system functions. As such, look-up tables mayincorporate data, as necessary or desired. For example, as describedabove, the tables can include longitude and latitude data defining anarea, and may also include other alarm system function data to be addedby the user. Additionally, the tables may include time-dependentsettings such that certain features can only be operated (or areprohibited or otherwise restricted) at certain time periods.

A block diagram illustrating the operation of the present inventionusing one or more broadcast signals is shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B.

With reference to FIG. 4A, broadcast signals (e.g., a pilot signal, asignal from one or more predetermined channels, etc.) may be broadcastfrom transmitters 100U and 100S and may be received by an alarm systemaccording to the present invention located in a vehicle 102. The alarmsystem upon detecting the broadcast signal indicating that the alarmsystem is within a predetermined area 104 indicative of, for example, aschool zone (as shown), and optionally determining that an alarmfunction mode should be activated according to predetermined conditions,sets the alarm function mode according to a predetermined settingcorresponding to the predetermined area or areas. The broadcast signalmay also contain function data, which can be received by the alarmsystem and used by the alarm system to set its various functionsaccordingly. For example, the broadcast signal may contain one or moreflags corresponding to one or more functions. The one or more functionswould then be set based on the corresponding received flags. Thus, asignal with the flag setting of 01 corresponding to audio-alarm andlights functions, respectively, would disable the audible alarm andmaintain the functionality of the lights. Thus, when activated, only thelights function would operate and the audible alarm would remain silent.Likewise, an 11 flag setting would enable the audible alarm and maintainthe functionality of the lights. The flag settings may also include asingle bit or any number of bits as desired and/or required.Additionally, the flags may be sent continuously or may be discontinuousin both time and frequency. The broadcast signal can correspond with apredetermined area classification. If the flags are commonly assignedthroughout a given region, alarm-system settings may be effortlessly setin these regions and quality of life may be enhanced for those m thevarious regions.

The alarm system may also use a predetermined weighing factor to decidea priority for alarm function data. For example, if the alarm system islocated in both a school zone and a hospital zone, the alarm system canuse the weighing factor to determine which zone should be used to setthe functions. For example, if the hospital zone has a greaterfunction-setting weight, then it would be the preferred setting in thepresently described dual setting environment. However, the alarm settingfactors may also be weighted to determine an appropriate setting(s).

The alarm system may also obtain alarm-function data using broadcast,multicast, and/or singlecast data. Additionally, paging channels may beused. Accordingly, the alarm system could listen to a paging channel,and upon determining that it is being paged, receive a predeterminedchannel to obtain data such as location data, alarm function data,optional map data, etc., as desired.

With reference to FIG. 4B, an alarm system is shown located in vehicle108 that is situated in a multi-level parking garage 110. A broadcast orother transmitter 100G broadcasts a signal throughout region 112.However, only vehicles in close proximity would receive the broadcastsignal. Thus, a valet mode can be targeted to vehicles within a certaindistance from a desired location.

Various screen shots illustrating a graphics display screen forinforming a user, etc., of alarm function settings, etc., are shown inFIGS. 5A-5F.

With reference to FIG. 5A, upon detecting that it is in a certain area,such as a parking area, various options relating to the area may bedisplayed on the display. For example, a valet parking mode menu item502 is displayed so that a user can accept or cancel a valet parkingfunction using, for example, a touch-screen display. The user mayoptionally select the valet parking mode menu item 502 to adjust othersettings. For example, selecting the valet parking mode menu item 502may display submenu items relating to the valet parking mode menu item502 as shown in FIG. 5E (and as will be described below). The variousscreens may also include navigation buttons, enter buttons, etc. asdesired. For the sake of clarity, not ail available buttons, menu items,enter buttons, etc., are shown in the figures.

Moreover, if the vehicle is in a predetermined zone, which may havemultiple alarm-function areas, then the various areas can be displayedby order or priority, etc. For example, as shown in FIG. 5A, the vehicleis assumed to be situated in both valet and hospital zones. As the valetparking mode is assumed, for example, to have a higher weight than thehospital zone, it is displayed in a given order (by weight), above thehospital zone menu 504.

However, the menu items may also be displayed using other methods. Forexample, using heuristic analysis, it can be determined that the user ismore likely to use the hospital setting as opposed to the valet modesetting (at certain times, days, etc.). Accordingly, this mode (i.e.,the hospital mode) can be set as a default mode during these times andthe user given the option to override the hospital setting and selectthe valet mode (or other mode) if desired.

The heuristic analysis can use various inputs such as time, place,driver identification (e.g., user 01, user 02, . . . , etc.), vehiclecapacities, fluid levels, temperature, weather, location, etc., todetermine an applicable alarm function mode. For example, usingheuristic analysis, the alarm system may determine that the user 02 ismore likely to use a valet setting in the current time/location.Accordingly, the alarm system may display the valet menu above any othermenu items in an ordered list. The alarm system may also display themenus and/or set given modes depending upon the order in which they weredetected. Thus, if a user enters a hospital zone and thereafter enters avalet zone, the hospital zone may be displayed first, depending uponsettings. Heuristic analysis is known in the art and will not bediscussed for the sake of clarity.

Other relevant options are also shown on the display screen 502depending upon various settings. For example, it may be desirable todisplay a trunk menu item 506 when displaying a valet mode menu item orwhen it is determined that the car is being parked, so that a user mayconveniently unlock the trunk to remove items before the vehicle isparked by, for example, a valet (at which time the trunk may be locked).

With reference to FIG. 5B, when it is determined that a vehicle islikely to be parked, a menu 500B relating to various parking options maybe displayed. As shown, the menu displays an urban alarm zone menu item510 indicating that the alarm setting is set to an urban alarm zone, andthe user is optionally provided an option to cancel, override and/orotherwise respond to these settings. Moreover, a trunk open menu item512 may be displayed and an optional alarm-setting menu item 514 mayalso be displayed.

With reference to FIG. 5C, a menu 500C (an energy refilling menu) may bedisplayed when it is determined that the vehicle is in a fuel station(or an energy refilling area such as, for example, a fuel station, abattery exchange area and/or station, near a battery charger or chargingstation, etc.) and the vehicle is optionally determined to be in “Park”(i.e., when the vehicle's transmission is in a “Park” setting that isindicated by a park signal produced by any of various means such as avehicle's controller, transmission controller, transmission selectorswitch, etc., that may be received by the alarm system). The menu 500Ccan include a fuel station (or energy refilling station) menu item 516which may be used to activate predetermined functions. For example, avehicle's fuel door (or cap, neither of which is shown) may be unlockedby selecting the fuel station menu item 516. Optionally, selecting thefuel station menu item can also shut off the vehicle and unlock thevehicle's doors and/or passenger seatbelts, for both the safety andconvenience of the user and/or passengers in the vehicle. The fuelstation menu may also include an option to set the vehicle's ventilationsystem to a recirculate mode (to avoid the intake of fuel vapors fromthe fuel station). The recirculate mode may be activated when it isdetected that the vehicle is within a certain distance of a fuelstation, regardless of other settings. However, the recirculate mode maybe set with regard to other settings, if desired. Accordingly, arecirculate menu item (not shown) may be displayed so that the user candetermine appropriate settings. Moreover, an optional seat-belt-releaseand/or engine-off menu item 518 can be displayed for user selection.These and other menu items may be optionally combined depending uponsettings. Other sensor data may also be used to determine appropriatemenus to activate and display on the screen. For example, if the fuelgauge indicates that the tank (or battery energy level) is more than ½full (or some other preset level), the refuel menu would not bedisplayed when it is determined that the alarm system has entered a fuelstation. Additionally, a time period may be used such that if a menuitem is not selected by a user within a given time period, the menu 500Cis no longer displayed and a previous or other screen may be displayed.A fuel-door switch may also be coupled with the alarm system accordingto the present invention such that selecting the fuel-door switch causesthe seatbelts to open and/or the ignition to turn off (as is required inmany areas) provided that the vehicle is in park, etc., as desired.Thus, compliance with local ordinances and regulations may be ensured inan effortless manner. Moreover, when the vehicle is started afterrefueling, a menu item indicating an odometer reset option and afasten-seat-belt option may also be displayed. The system may alsorespond to different types of fuels or fueling stations. For example, inan electric refueling station (e.g., for refueling an electric vehicle),a battery charge door, vents, fans, etc. may be activated, as desired.Likewise, in a hydrogen refueling station (e.g. for a hydrogen fueledvehicle), a fuel door may be opened, windows may be opened, fans may beactivated, etc., as desired.

Further, the system according to the present invention may determinewhether it may be desirable to use a different fuel such as a fuel witha higher, same, or lower octane rating. Thus, the performance of thevehicle may be monitored and a “refilling suggestion” displayed with therefueling menu. Accordingly, the user can be informed to use higheroctane fuel for better performance if, for example, engine knock above acertain predetermined threshold is detected when using the current fuel.Further, the receiver may transmit/receive information (e.g., wirelesslyto/from, for example, the refilling station) relating to the currentfuel (that the vehicle is refilling with) or may present an option tothe user to select a grade of fuel so that the controller may use thisinformation for later use. Thus, the controller, for example, upondetermining that the engine did not knock beyond the predeterminedthreshold using the current fuel (i.e., the fuel which the vehicle usedprior to the current refilling), may inform the user that the currentgrade of fuel (e.g., 89 octane is sufficient). Likewise, upon detectingexcessive knock (i.e., knock beyond the predetermined threshold) thecontroller may inform the user to use a fuel with a higher octane rating(e.g., 93 octane). Further, the system according to the presentinvention may calculate a cost/benefit and/or performance/benefit ofeach grade of fuel so that the user may determine a proper grade offuel. For example, the user may be informed (e.g., via a display and/ora speaker) that the engine performance may increase 10% if a highergrade of fuel (e.g., above 92 octane) is selected. The system accordingto the present application may also user location information, tripinformation (e.g., departure-destination information), vehicleperformance data (e.g., load, temperature, speed, etc.) and other data(e.g., outside temperature, altitude, etc.) to determine a desirablefuel rating to use which can then be output to the user (e.g., via adisplay and/or a speaker). Accordingly, desired information may beoutput to the user when, for example, the energy refilling menu isdisplayed or at other desired times (e.g., when selected by a user,etc.). Further, each of the fuel type/grade, performance, and/or costvariables may weighed (e.g., by the user, a vehicles manufacturer, etc.)so that the controller may determine a desired fuel. Further, thecontroller may save past data and use heuristic analysis (which is wellknown in the art) to determine a desired fuel.

With reference to FIG. 5D, a menu 500D, which may be displayed when thevalet mode is selected, is shown. The valet mode active menu 500Ddisplays a message indicating that the valet mode is active and mayprovide the user with an option to cancel the valet mode. Accordingly,the user may enter a predetermined code using, for example, atouch-screen input. In other embodiments, the valet mode may remainactive within a predefined area (e.g., the valet area in which the valetmode was activated, a limited distance, an area within a certain signalarea, etc.) and the insertion of a key into a lock cylinder may not benecessary to start (or run) the car. For example, when the user arrives,a key carried by the user and within a certain distance of the vehicle(e.g., such as a conventional ignition key, a radio frequency (RF) key,can be detected by the alarm system and the valet mode automaticallycancelled. As described above, the user may also use a mobile station(e.g., a cellular telephone) to cancel a valet mode. Moreover, the usermay also use an e-mail service or a short message service (e.g., an SMSmessage) to send a message to the alarm system to deactivate (or cancela desired mode of) the alarm system. The alarm system may also use otherbroadcast means to send/receive messages from mobile stations. Forexample, a user's key fob can be used to deactivate the valet mode.Likewise, Bluetooth™ communication means can also be used to transmitdata to and from the alarm system.

With reference to FIG. 5E, a submenu 500E corresponding to the valetparking mode menu item 502 (shown in FIG. 5A) is shown. When a userselects the valet parking mode menu item 502, submenu 500E is displayedto allow the user to view, select and/or change various settings, asdesired. For example, the user can view various functions that areassociated with, and/or set, the valet mode. These settings can includesubmenu items for setting a trunk-locked setting 520, a hood-lockedsetting 522, a power-reduction-mode setting (for reducing engine outputwhich can be desirable in high-powered vehicles) 524, a vehicle-tracksetting (for providing a location tracking function for the vehicleand/or recording the vehicle's operating functions during the valetmode) 526, a range setting (which may be adjustable) 528 for setting anoperating range (e.g., total distance traveled or absolute range), inwhich, for example, the vehicle's ignition can be turned on, and outsideof which various optional functions may be activated (or ratherinactivated) (e.g., the vehicle's ignition (or run mode) can be turnedoff, the transmission locked in park, a GPS tracking system activated,and police notified, etc.) to prevent unauthorized use the vehicle, andan alarm sensor deactivation setting for selecting which sensors will bedeactivated in the valet mode (e.g., see, menu items 520-530 and theircorresponding buttons). Although not illustrated, a privacy option maybe optionally included. This privacy option may be selected, either viaan initial setting or by a user, to hide non-essential data from beingselected and/or displayed. Accordingly, data which is to be private(e.g., phone lists, address data (e.g., location/navigation data, etc.)may be prevented from being displayed, thus ensuring a user's privacy.Further, the user data may be displayed according to a user. Thus, afirst user may information displayed, functions set, etc., according toa first setting and a second user may have information displayed,functions set, etc., according to a second setting.

With reference to FIG. 5F, a menu 500F is shown. The menu 500F may bedisplayed when it is detected that the user is located in the home 01alarm zone. Accordingly, when in the home 01 alarm zone, variouspredetermined menu items 532-542 may be displayed for the user'sselection. For example, the user can activate outdoor lights, indoorlights, or garage door 01 opener, open front gates, unlock an entry door(i.e., a house's front door, etc.), and/or lock all doors and/or gatesby selecting corresponding menu items 532, 534, 536, 538, 540 and 542.Additionally, an optional menu item 544 may be displayed to indicate analarm zone setting (e.g., a home 01 zone) for the user's selection (forexample to select, override, adjust settings, etc., as desired).Although it is preferred that most menu items (e.g., menus 5A-5E) aredisplayed when in a given alarm zone and/or when the vehicle is in theparked transmission selection position (e.g., for automatic transmissionvehicles) or the parking brake is engaged (for manual transmissionvehicles), it may be preferable to display menu 500F when it isdetermined that the vehicle will be located in a home zone shortly. Thiscan allow the user to enter without having to stop the vehicle, whichmay be necessary for example, to open front gates to a property whilethe vehicle is on a main road, when stopping may be undesirable.Accordingly, heuristic analysis can use data such as time (includingdate), user, location, distance to expected location, etc. to determineeither or both expected location and time to expected location.

At least some of the menus shown in FIGS. 5A-5F, may be displayed asdesired. For example, menu 5A can be displayed when the alarm systemdetects a change of zones (e.g., when the alarm system determines thatit has recently entered an alarm zone) and certain conditions are met,e.g., the car has been recently (e.g., within 20 seconds) placed in aparked transmission-selection position. Likewise, other menus may alsobe displayed as desired depending upon system configuration.

The alarm system can also use other sensor data (e.g., GPS data,Assisted GPS (AGPS), magnetic field data, acceleration, distance data,etc.) to determine that the vehicle will be entering the home alarm zoneshortly (as opposed to leaving the home alarm zone). As such, the alarmsystem may use location data to determine its location on a periodicbasis and/or use interrupts to indicate that the vehicle is in apredetermined area.

For example, the GPS function module may be used to continuallycalculate the position of the vehicle when it is determined that thevehicle is in a predetermined area or about to enter a predeterminedarea, and an interrupt can then be generated to signal this conditionand predetermined routines may be performed (e.g., various menuscorresponding to an area may be displayed, various functions set, etc.).

With reference to FIG. 5F, when receiving a specific signal such as, forexample, an optical signal or RF signal corresponding to a homelocation, the alarm system may perform functions related to the area,e.g., display menu 500F may be displayed. Moreover, various data and orsystem inputs may be combined. For example, if as described above, analarm system detects certain inputs within certain time periods (eitheralone or in combination) and receives one or more specific signals, thealarm system may perform certain procedures.

With reference to FIG. 5H, an option menu 500H for providing a user withthe option to select and/or set various settings is shown. For example,a menu (as indicated by, for example, a “diagnostic” menu tab entitleddiagnostics) may display certain system settings on the display andallow the user one or more options to customize the alarm system. Thus,as shown the user may select to ignore the menu screen or disable awindow sensor, as shown.

A flow chart illustrating the operations of the alarm system accordingto the present invention is shown in FIG. 6. In step 600, it isdetermined whether the alarm system should be activated. The alarmsystem may be activated using various settings such as, for example,manufacturer-programmed settings, user-programmed settings, area-basedsettings, etc. For example, the alarm system can determine whether toactivate by determining whether conditions such as the ignition is off,the driver's door has been opened and shut, and a countdown timer hasreached a maximum count, before activating the alarm. A signal receivedfrom a remote transmitter (or an RF tag) may also be used to activatethe alarm system. Additionally, other methods for activating the alarmsystem may also be used as desired.

Based on the determination of step 600, the alarm system is activated instep 602.

In step 604 it is determined whether to display a menu for userselection. If a menu is not desired (e.g., the vehicle does not have adisplay available, a display function is not set, etc.), step 606 may beperformed rather than the display step of step 604. However, if a menudisplay is desired in step 604, a corresponding menu which cancorrespond to a default setting, to received location data, or to thelocation of the vehicle, etc., is displayed. The displayed menu can alsobe displayed for a predetermined amount of time. The display may includean LED display, or some other indicator in lieu of a graphic display.

In step 606, it is determined whether an input from a user is received.If it is determined that a user input is received (optionally within apredetermined time period), step 618 is performed. However, if it isdetermined that a user input is not received (e.g., within apredetermined time period), step 608 is performed.

In step 618, the user input is used to update the alarm system settingsaccording to the user input. Moreover, the history data of the alarmsystem may be updated to reflect the user input.

In step 620 it is determined whether cancel command (such as an exitcommand) has been received. In other words, it is determined whether toexit (i.e., not to activate) the alarm activation routine, and if it isdetermined to do so, the routine is ended in step 622.

Returning to step 608, the alarm system functions are set according tothe alarm mode and optionally to history data.

In step 610, it is determined whether the alarm system is triggered. Ifthe alarm system is triggered, step 612 is performed. However, if thealarm system is not triggered, then step 610 may be repeated.

In step 612, the alarm system activates functions corresponding to theset functions and continues to step 614.

In step 614, the alarm system determines whether a predetermined timeinterval (which may have been started when the alarm system wastriggered in step 610) has elapsed. If it is determined that thepredetermined interval has elapsed, the alarm system optionally updatesthe alarm history data in step 616 and then may repeat step 608. Alarmhistory data can include the number of times the alarm system has beenactivated within a certain period of time, the corresponding time ofactivation, sensor inputs e.g., if the alarm system has been triggeredby a certain door sensor, etc., each time out of the past 10activations. Then using this alarm history data, the alarm system candetermine a desired action (e.g., deactivate the certain sensor) and/oralert the user of the current state of the alarm (e.g., 10 activations,9 of which were triggered by the left door sensor), and the user cantake a desired action such as, for example, instruct the alarm system toignore the left door sensor, open the left door and close it (e.g., inminivans or other vehicles with an automatic door or hatchopener/closer). Accordingly, the controller can, upon reviewing thehistory data, determine faulty sensors, etc., and can optionally ignoreinputs from the sensor or deactivate the faulty sensor to avoid falsealarms in the future. Additionally, a message (as shown in FIG. 5G) maybe displayed to alert for example, the user, etc., of the faulty sensoror another message alerting of the faulty sensor can be displayed inother menus (e.g., menu 5A) to alert of the faulty sensor before thealarm is set and to optionally provide a user the ability to manuallyoverride the faulty sensor to avoid false alarms in the future. Thevarious screens displayed on the display may also be sent to a mobilecommunication device of the user via various messaging methods. Forexample, an e-mail or SMS messaging system and/or a GUI-enabledmessaging system may be used.

A flow chart illustrating the operations of the alarm system accordingto the present invention is shown in FIG. 7. In step 700, location data(e.g., GPS data, triangulation data, AASA data, AGPS data, a broadcastsignal, etc.) is received and the location of the alarm system isdetermined.

In step 702, it is determined whether location data has changed(preferably within a predetermined period of time such as two minutes).If it is determined that there has been a location area change, thealarm system proceeds to step 704. The predetermined period of time canbe used so that if a vehicle has just driven into a valet parking area,a gas station, etc. it could be determined that there recently was achange of location and the system can respond accordingly. However, ifthe vehicle has been in the new area for more than the predeterminedperiod of time, it can be determined that displaying a menucorresponding to the location may not be necessary. This method may beadvantageous in situations where the user may sit in the car for anextended period of time (e.g., waiting on line to pick up passengers,waiting in traffic, etc.). However, the predetermined time period isoptional, and the alarm system may change a menu display when it detectsthat the location has changed (e.g., from a first area to another area,such as a valet parking zone, a hospital zone, etc.) or that the vehiclehas begun to move after being stopped for a period of time (e.g., whenwaiting on line at a gas station, etc.), such that a desired display maybe displayed when deemed appropriate. The system may also use speed todetermine whether certain options may be activated. For example, thevehicles speed may be determined before, for example, the seat belts,the fuel door, etc. can be activated (e.g., opened).

In step 704, a menu corresponding to the location and/or the locationdata is displayed. For example, if it is determined that the vehicle isin a hospital zone, then a menu corresponding to the hospital area isdisplayed. Likewise, if it is determined that the vehicle is in a valetparking area, then a menu corresponding to a valet area that is similarto that shown in FIG. 5A may be shown.

In step 706, the alarm system determines whether user input was receivedwithin an optional predetermined period of time (e.g., 20 seconds). Ifthe determination of step 706 is positive, the system proceeds to step708. However, if the determination is negative, the system proceeds tostep 710.

In step 708, the alarm system may activate functions corresponding tothe user's input in step 706 or to a default setting if a user's inputwas not received. Accordingly, if, for example, a fuel station menu wasdisplayed (in step 704) and a user selected the refuel menu item (i.e.,requested that the fuel door be opened), then (when it is optionallydetermined that the vehicle has been placed in park—in automaticvehicles or the parking brake is engaged—in manual vehicles) thecontroller signals to open the fuel door in step 708. Also, dependingupon vehicle options and settings, the ignition can be turned off, thevehicle's doors can be unlocked, and seat belts can be released (e.g.,by using an automatic solenoid, etc.). Accordingly, by selecting asingle menu item, a user can conveniently perform a plurality of tasks.This can increase convenience and provide an increased safety factor tooccupants of the vehicle. For example, by unbelting certain passengers(e.g., passengers who are not in children's seats, or selected seats),in certain areas, the danger posed by fire in fueling stations, may bereduced.

In step 710, it is optionally determined whether the alarm system hasbeen activated, and if the determination is positive, step 714 isperformed. However, if it is negative, then step 700 may be repeated.Likewise, as steps 710-720 are optional, step 700 may be repeatedinstead of steps 710-720

In step 714, the alarm functions are set according to the receivedlocation data and optional history data.

In step 716, it is determined whether the alarm system has beentriggered.

If it is determined that the alarm system has been triggered in step716, then the alarm system is activated using the set functions in step718, and the controller monitors conditions and responds accordingly.For example, if the function mode set by the alarm corresponds with area3 shown in Table 2 above, then the controller would control the alarmfunctions such as the lights and audible alarm to activate only withinthe predetermined time period (i.e., within the 60-second window for theaudible alarm and the full alert time for the lights). It is assumed thealarm triggering time has a maximum value of 90 seconds, at which timethe controller resets the alarm and optionally updates the history(e.g., to prevent false alarms).

The controller may also control such that the various operational stepsas described herein, may be overridden such that the controller may exitany step or loop as shown in the drawings of the present invention. Forexample, if the alarm system is reset by a user, then the system canreturn to step 700. The controller also monitors conditions andactivation time and history to determine when and how to perform variousfunctions.

In step 720, it is optionally determined whether a predetermined periodof time has expired, and if so, the alarm system returns to step 700.Although this step is illustrated as a separate step, this step may alsobe performed in compliance with various time settings and may becombined with other steps as opposed to being a separate step as shown.

A flow chart illustrating the operations of the alarm system accordingto the present invention is shown in FIG. 8. In step 802, it isdetermined whether alarm activation conditions are met (e.g., vehicle inpark, ignition is off, etc., as desired). Based on this determination,the system proceeds to step 804, and obtains location data.

In step 806, alarm-system functions corresponding to the location dataare set and the system proceeds to step 810. The alarm-system functionsmay be activated according to a present state. For example, the presentstate is an initial activation state (i.e., the alarm has not beentriggered). Accordingly, functions can be activated according to thisstate, which can, depending upon embodiment, refer to a present state, apast state (e.g., the previously-used state), and/or any state asdesired. Thus, for example, when the alarm system activates, thevehicle's door locks can be locked, a light may be flashed to indicatethat the alarm system has been activated, etc. During this step, alarmfunctions such as door locks, etc., may be activated (e.g., to lock thevehicle) according to their predetermined settings. However, functionscorresponding to a triggered state are not activated. For example,unless triggered, the alarm system will only honk a horn momentarily toindicate that the vehicle is locked but would not activate the horncontinuously, as it would if the alarm were triggered (and horn functionis active).

In step 810, it is determined whether the alarm system has beentriggered. If it is determined that the alarm system has been triggered,step 812 is performed, and if it is determined that the alarm system hasnot been triggered, step 810 may be repeated.

In step 812, the alarm system functions are activated according topredetermined settings, and the system thereafter performs step 814.

In step 814, it may be determined whether a predetermined time periodhas expired or the alarm system has been turned off. This is an optionalstep, and can, for example, be performed in step 812. If thedetermination of step 814 is negative, then step 816 is performed;otherwise, step 818 is performed.

In step 816, alarm-system functions are controlled according to time.For example, if the predetermined functions of the alarm system varyaccording to time, then they are controlled as per their settings. Otheralarm-system functions that do not vary with time, are not varied.

In step 818, it is determined whether the predetermined time period(e.g., measured, for example, from the moment the alarm is triggered, analarm function is generated, etc., as desired) has expired. If thedetermination is positive, then step 820 is performed; otherwise step822 is performed.

In step 820, the alarm system is shut down.

In step 822, the alarm system history is updated and the system returnsto step 806.

A flow chart illustrating the operations of the alarm system accordingto the present invention is shown in FIG. 9. In step 902, it isdetermined whether the vehicle is being parked. One or more signals maybe used to indicate a parked status. For example, a transmissionindicator may be used to indicate that the vehicle is in the parkedposition. However other sensors may also be used to determine whetherthe vehicle is parked. For example, the alarm system according to thepresent invention may determine that a vehicle is parked if the vehicleremains stationary on the street for 30 seconds, is off (i.e., theignition is off and no key is in the ignition switch or, in the case ofan RFID-key-equipped vehicle, no RFID-key is in the vehicle or a part ofthe vehicle) and/or the vehicle is in reverse (formanual-transmission-equipped vehicles), etc. If it is determined thatthe vehicle is parked or is about to be parked (e.g., the vehicle wasstopped for 10 seconds and then proceeds in a reverse direction), thenan alarm system menu corresponding to the location may be shown. If thedetermination is positive, the alarm system proceeds to step 904.

In step 904, an alarm system menu corresponding to present location isdisplayed for user interaction.

In step 906, it is determined whether a use input is received. If thedetermination is positive, the alarm system is activated according touser input and/or location.

In step 908, the alarm system is activated according to the setfunctions and an optional time input.

The present invention can operate by itself or with other systems. Forexample, in FIGS. 10A-10C, block diagrams illustrating the systemaccording to the present invention in which, for example, therestriction module may interface with, for example, conventional and/orother vehicular systems (e.g., alarm systems, etc.) is shown.

With reference to FIG. 10A the alarm system according to the presentinvention includes a logic module 1092A, an alarm restriction module1094A, and a speaker 1096A. The logic module performs functions such ascontrolling the operation of the alarm system, and outputs one or moresignals to the restriction module. The restriction module includes areceiving means for receiving a restricting signal via a receiving meanssuch as an antenna 1098 a, an infra-red (IR) receiver, an RFID signal,etc. The restricting signal may be any signal which identifies aspecific area. For example, the restriction signal can include a signalsuch as a pilot carrier signal, a coded signal, an IR signal, orcombinations thereof, etc., as desired. If the restriction moduledetermines, using the received restriction signal, that the area is analarm-restriction area, the restriction module would block (orattenuate, as desired) signals transmitted to the speaker 1096A. Forexample, assuming that in a typical alarm system a signal S_(typ) isgenerated when an alarm system is triggered, S_(typ) can be used tosignal the speaker to generate an alarming sound (or to drive thesiren). However, in the present invention, S_(typ) can be transmitted tothe restriction module, which determines whether to signal (or drive)the siren according to the location of the alarm system (or othervariables). Accordingly, if the restriction module, determines that anaudible sound is permissible (based on the location data or on anoptional user's setting), the restriction module would then transmit asignal S′ based upon signal S_(typ). Accordingly, if S_(typ) istransmitted at certain frequencies or amplitudes to produce certainsounds (such as tunes, voice, etc.) and amplitudes, S′ can mimic S_(typ)so that the speaker produces the same or similar sounds. In this regard,the restriction module can include means that would generate a signal S′and/or means to pass or selectively block signal S_(typ) (which would beoutput as signal S′ as shown in FIG. 10A) based on the determination ofwhether the speaker should remain silent, be attenuated, or activatewithout restriction. Accordingly, if it is determined that the speakershould not output sound at more than a predetermined volume and/orshould not output sound of a certain frequency, then attenuation means(not shown) may be used. For example, a microphone (MIC) 1099A may beused to feed back various characteristics of sound emitted from thespeaker 1096A. These characteristics can then be used by the restrictionmodule to determine a sound level, for example in dB (decibels), and mayalso determine frequency and adjust signal S′ so that it is inaccordance with predetermined settings.

The restriction module may also determine characteristics of the signalS_(typ) and thereafter output an appropriate signal S′. For example, thefrequency and/or amplitude of either or both S_(typ) or the sound outputby speaker 1096A (and thereafter detected by a microphone 1099A or otherpickup device) may be used to distinguish between a signal emitted froman alarm system indicative of as alarm sound, and a signal indicative ofa driver using a vehicle's horn (a horn signal). For example, an alarmsignal may be repeated at certain amplitudes and/or frequencies (e.g.,63 Hz), whereas a horn signal (produced as a result of a driver usingthe vehicle's horn) will most likely use lower frequencies which may benon-periodic and/or variable. Thus, if the restriction module detects asignal having a certain frequency (or a signal having a frequency equalto or greater than 63 Hz), it may determine that the sound (or signalS_(typ)) is an alarming sound (or signal indicative of an alarm) andadjust its settings so that S′ would be in accordance with varioussettings (e.g., those shown in Tables 1 and/or 2). However, if therestriction module detects that S_(typ) has a frequency less than 63 Hz(and/or is, for example, non-periodic, or continuous), it may pass thesignal S_(typ) (as S′) to the speaker 1096A so that the vehicle's hornmay be used by the driver without any interruption.

Although the restriction module can pass S_(typ) as S′, the restrictionmodule may do this passively or actively. In other words, therestriction module may merely substantially pass S_(typ) through as S′,it may process S_(typ) using amplification means, attenuation, filteringmeans, and/or other means to output a signal S′ that is indicative ofS_(typ), or it may substitute S_(typ) with another signal or signals.Thus, the restriction module may output a signal S′ (and/or S″) thatcorresponds with a predetermined tune (a frequency or frequencies,melody, song, MP3 data, etc.) contained in its memory (MEM—that caninclude a RAM, ROM, Flash memory, etc.) and/or in an external memory(e.g., a user's MP3 player), when it determines that an alarm signal isbeing output. Likewise, the restriction module may output a desiredselection, when it determines that a horn signal is being output. Therestriction module may also switch signal S′ to signal S″ that is outputto a different audible device (and vice versa). Thus, if speaker 1096Ais a horn that has a limited bandwidth (and can only output a hornsound), and 1096AA is a speaker that has a wider bandwidth (and canoutput various frequencies such that it can reproduce voices, songs,etc.), the restriction module may output signals S′ and S″ such that theappropriate speaker is used to properly reproduce data output through S′and/or S″. Thus, the restriction module, if playing MP3 data, may usespeaker 1096AA, and may output a horn signal via speaker 1096A.

Accordingly, the restriction module may, upon detecting that S_(typ)(which, for the sake of this example is a periodic signal at 73 Hz) isan alarm signal (as opposed to a horn signal), output a signal S′ thatcan be for example, a musical melody, an emulated voice, etc., viaspeaker 1096AA.

Thus, when the restriction module receives S_(typ) and/or a feedbacksignal S″_(typ) (e.g., from the MIC 1099A), the restriction module candetermine (using either signal) whether an alarm sound is being output.Accordingly, if it is determined that an alarm sound is being output(i.e., that S_(typ) is an alarm signal), the restriction module mayoutput a signal S′ or S″ that includes a desired alarm sound. Thedesired alarm sound can include a musical tune, a song, etc., that maybe stored in the internal memory (MEM) or received through a module(e.g., an MP3 module 1090A as shown). Accordingly, a user may customizehis alarm system to play a desired musical selection (musical data) in adesired format if the restriction module detects that S_(typ) orS″_(typ) is indicative of an alarm sound. Likewise, the restrictionmodule may output a desired tune or tunes when it determines that a hornsound is being output.

The restriction module may also output multimedia data (e.g., to one ormore displays) contained in the vehicle. Thus, the restriction modulemay also output desired MPEG (Motion Picture Experts Group)-3 data thatcan be received via a broadcast or via a memory (such as MEM or 1093A)to a suitable display (not shown).

The restriction module may contain a suitable filter or filters (e.g., abandpass, lowpass and/or highpass) to pass predetermined frequencies(e.g., 73 Hz contained in S_(typ)) and/or may use active means. Forexample, signal S_(typ) may be fast-Fourier transformed and thereafteranalyzed. Accordingly, the transformed S_(typ) can be compared withpredetermined data to determine whether it corresponds with a horn or analarm. Moreover, commonly available analysis programs, systems, and/ormethods may be used to determine data contained in S_(typ) and/orS″_(typ). In this regard, the restriction module may be programmed torecognize a particular frequency, pattern, amplitude, etc., output viaS_(typ) or the vehicle to train it to the vehicle. Moreover, therestriction module may be programmed with data corresponding to thevehicle or can receive a code corresponding with the vehicle and set itssettings according to predetermined data contained in a memory (e.g.,MEM). Thus, the restriction module may have a programming mode and/or atraining mode. In the programming mode, a code corresponding with avehicle type, classification, etc., may be entered into the restrictionmodule. While in the training mode, the restriction module may trainitself to the vehicle.

Thus, the restriction module can be compatible with existing vehicularalarm systems and horns and can meet existing motor vehicle safetystandards and/or regulations.

While FIG. 10A illustrates a restriction module attached between analarm module and the siren, the restriction module may be located inother locations, as desired. For example, with reference to FIG. 10B, arestriction module 1094B is coupled to an alarm module 1092B. Therestriction module can receive one or more signals from the alarm module(e.g., an activation signal) and return signals (e.g., a restrictedsignal) to the alarm module which would convey information to the alarmmodule so that a triggering event, depending upon location, would notpermit an audible output from a speaker 1096B. For example, as shown,the restriction module receives a signal via an antenna 1098B, anddetermines whether the alarm system is in a restricted area and whetheran audible alarm is permitted. Accordingly, based upon thedetermination, a restriction signal may be sent to the alarm module. Inthis manner, the restriction module can transmit an activation signal tothe alarm module to control activation of the alarm function or cantransmit a signal to control any desired function of the alarm module(e.g., the speaker output). Accordingly, based on location information,the restriction module may control the activation of the alarm module.Although there are many ways to control the alarm module, control of thealarm module may be accomplished in response to a signal generated bythe alarm module or before a signal is sent. Thus, if the restrictionmodule determines that the audible alarm should not be generated, therestriction module may, at any time, generate a signal indicative of thedetermination. In this regard, the alarm module may have an input and/orcontrol means for controlling activation, audible alarm generation, doorlocking functions, etc. The restriction module may also pass, block,and/or generate certain signals or block them from passing to the alarmmodule to control the alarm function module.

However, if, for example, the alarm module does not have sufficientinputs, “dummy signals” may be generated to “trick” the alarm moduleinto operating in certain states, as desired. Thus, for example, if therestriction module determines to restrict the audible alarm, therestriction module may generate a signal to prevent the alarm modulefrom activating, triggering, or outputting an audible alarm. In thisregard, a “false signal” may include a signal corresponding to an openor closed door, ignition on or off, etc., which would prevent activationof the alarm module (e.g., activation or prevents triggering). Thus,upon receiving the false signal, the alarm module would either notactivate and/or not trigger. Accordingly, the restriction module mayinclude means to generate or block one or more desired signals such asan ignition-on or -off signal, a door-open or -closed signal, atrunk-open signal, a hood-open or -closed, a motion signal, anactivation or non-activation signal, etc. (at a desired assertionlevel), to accomplish this task. This is more clearly shown withreference to FIG. 10C where a restriction module 1094B is placed suchthat it can receive sensor inputs (from sensors such as an ignition-onsensor, a door-open sensor, a hood-open sensor, a trunk-open sensor, amotion sensor, a pressure sensor, a noise sensor, etc. as are typicallyused in vehicle alarm systems) and pass, block, and/or generate signalsto be input into corresponding inputs of an alarm module 1092A so thatthe alarm system can be operated in accordance with location.Accordingly, if the restriction module receives information indicatingthat it is in an alarm restricted area, the restriction module maytransmit a signal such as a door-open or -closed signal, an ignition-onsignal, a reset signal, etc., to cause the alarm module to assumecertain states (e.g., to prevent activation, or to prevent triggering,etc.). Thus, for example, if the alarm module receives a signal fromantenna 1098C and determines that it is in an alarm restriction area,the restriction module may block sensory inputs such as door-open,hood-open, trunk-open, sound, vibration and motion-sensor inputs toprevent the alarm module from triggering. However, activation of thealarm module may not be prevented and thus functions such as doorlocking, ignition or starter deactivation, etc. upon activation of analarm function would not be prevented. Further, the restriction modulemay directly pass or block outputs of the logic module so that undesiredsignals may be controlled. Further, a restriction device may be includedbetween the speaker 1096C and the logic module 1093C to pass or blocksignals to speaker 1096C, as desired.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a conventional alarm modulecoupled with a restriction module according to the present invention. Aconventional alarm module 1102 has a plurality of conventional inputsfor indicating the status of particular sensor inputs such as, forexample, a door open (which may indicate any door is open or an exactdoor is open), a trunk open, a hood open, ignition off (and/or on),sound, a motion, a vibration, window breakage, wheel speed, etc., inputsas are typically used in vehicular alarm systems, a plurality ofoutputs, such as, for example, a door open, a door lock, ignitiondisable, starter disable, horn/siren, window lock, lights, etc. as aretypically used by alarm modules, other miscellaneous input/outputs, andan antenna. A restriction module 1104 optionally includes one or moreinputs and/or outputs that may correspond with inputs and/or outputs ofthe alarm module 1102. Outputs from the alarm module 1102 aretransmitted to the restriction module 1104, which depending uponlocation and/or settings, may pass, block, and/or modify a correspondingoutput. For example, using location information, the restriction module1104A would determine whether it is located within an alarm restrictedarea and pass or block signals received from the alarm module 1102appropriately. Thus, for example, if it is determined that the vehicle(or parts thereof) is in an alarm restriction area in which an audiblesiren is prohibited, the restriction module would block a received sirensignal that is received from the alarm module 1102. Likewise, thissignal would be passed (or modified accordingly) if the restrictionmodule 1104 determines that it (or parts of the vehicle) is not in arestriction area. In other words, if the controller determines that itis not within an alarm restriction area, the controller can beprogrammed such that the signals received by the restriction module arepassed through the module (e.g., without any substantial change), andcorresponding signals are output from the restriction module

Although not shown, the one or more inputs anchor outputs to the alarmmodule 1102 may first pass through the restriction module which maypass, block, and/or modify them and thereafter transmit them to thealarm module 1102. Accordingly, the restriction module 1104 may receivean input such as an ignition-off input (which would normally be input tothe alarm module 1102) and may pass, block, and/or generate acorresponding signal for input to the alarm module 1102 depending uponlocation and/or settings. For example, upon receiving a signal such asthe ignition-off indicator, the restriction module may determine not tooutput an ignition-off indicator to the alarm module 1102. Accordingly,activation of the alarm module 1102 may be prevented, as desired.Moreover, the restriction module 1104 may use an audible and/or visualindicator to indicate its status. Thus, the restriction module 1104 mayflash the lights and/or honk the horn according to predeterminedpatterns to alert the user of its status. Additionally, the status maybe displayed on a display (e.g., a touch screen, etc.) to alert the userand receive commands (e.g., cancel, change, accept, etc.) as desired.

Likewise, depending upon location, settings, etc., if it is not desiredto prevent the alarm module from activating (i.e., arming), but ratherto only prevent the output of an audible alarm sound if the alarm systemis triggered (e.g., by a door opening, etc.), the restriction module(upon detecting one or mote activation signals such as an ignition-offsignal, etc., as desired) would only block the output of the restrictedfunction (i.e., the horn output) and let all other signals pass whichwould enable them (the other functions) to operate as they normallywould absent any restrictions. Thus, if activated, and it is desired torestrict (i.e., block, prohibit), the output of an audible siren/hornalarm function such as light activation, ignition disable, etc., therestricted functions would not be activated as they would normally beabsent a restriction area.

Although the restriction module 1104 is shown interfaced with aconventional alarm module (e.g., 1102), it is envisioned that therestriction module can operate independently of the alarm module.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a vehicle including aconventional alarm module and a restriction module communicating with agarage signal according to the present invention. This system is similarto the system shown in FIGS. 10A-C and 11, and described above. Thevehicle 1202 includes a conventional alarm module 1204, a restrictionmodule 1206, and a reception module 1208. The vehicle 1202 is parked ina garage including a garage transmitter 1210 (which can be included in agarage door opener as shown). The park transmitter transmits a signal(e.g., Z) such as an IR signal, including location data (e.g., aspecific code, message, frequency, etc.) to indicate that the vehicle inthe garage. The signal may have a predetermined strength or spread(e.g., see, W) so that a vehicle can determine that it is in a specificarea (e.g., a private garage as shown). The restriction module receivesthe IR signal via the reception module and determines the location ofthe vehicle 1202. Using the location of the vehicle, the controllercontrols according to a predetermined routine. This predeterminedroutine may be set by the user, programmed by the factory, programmed onvarious occasions and/or preset intervals, etc., as desired, and maycorrespond with one or more locations and functions (as describedelsewhere in this application). Thus, assuming the user has set a garagelocation to include preventing the door locks from actuating when in thegarage (i.e., when receiving the IR signal corresponding to the garage),thus keeping the doors from being locked (even though the alarm ispermitted to activate), then the door locks would be controlledaccordingly, when it is determined that the vehicle is in the garage.

Likewise, when determining that it is located in the garage, therestriction module 1206 may activate various interfaced functions (e.g.,see, FIG. 11 or FIG. 1). Thus, the restriction module may, for example,be set such that it causes a left rear door (on for example, a minivan)to slide open upon detecting that the vehicle is in the garage and wheelmotion has stopped. Accordingly, a driver may step out of the vehicleand remove packages in the rear seat area of the vehicle in a singlestep without having to open the door. Likewise, a handicapped routinemay be programmed to activate certain optional functions at certaintimes. Thus, for example, if the vehicle 1202 is equipped with a wheellift for handicapped access, the wheel lift can be activated and broughtinto a waiting position for occupants of the vehicle 1202 without directuser intervention each time. This can minimize any inconvenience causedby having to wait for a wheel lift to extend to a functional positionbefore it can be used. Thus, user safety and convenience are increased.The alarm system of the present invention may also include a gas sensorsuch as a carbon monoxide (CO) sensor as shown in FIG. 12. Upondetecting a sensed gas level (e.g., CO) which exceeds a predeterminedthreshold, a signal can be generated and used to warn of and/or controlthe sensed gas level. For example, when CO sensor 1212 generates asensed gas signal which is determined (e.g., by a garage door opener'scontroller) to exceed a predetermined threshold, a signal can begenerated to open the garage door, activate a ventilation system, and/orturn off an ignition function of the vehicle (thus turning off thevehicle), thus ensuring the safety of occupants in the garage andattached areas such as a house, etc., and/or vehicle.

Accordingly, the present invention may be used with conventional alarmsystems to enhance the operation of these alarm systems and provideadded user conveniences and advantages. Furthermore, the presentinvention could bring existing alarm systems into conformance withordinances and regulations governing the operation of vehicular alarmsystems. According to the present invention, a remote system may beused. Accordingly, for example, the location of a station (e.g., thevehicles alarm system) may be determined at a remote location. Then,regulations and/or settings regarding the mobile station may betransmitted to the mobile station. The mobile stations can then activateand/or alert a user with corresponding information. The user can thenmake selections, as desired. The remote system may include for example,a system such as the OnStar™ communication system or can includeconventional wireless communication systems.

FIG. 13A is a block diagram illustrating a moving vehicle on a roadwayaccording to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 13A, the vehicle1300 is assumed to be traveling from a first zone (Zone 1) 1301 to asecond zone (Zone 2) 1302. The first and second zones are assumed to belocated in different states (e.g., New York and New Jersey) that areassumed to have different vehicular operation requirements (e.g.,regulations concerning the use of motor vehicles). For example, Zone 1requires a vehicle to operate with its lights on when its windshieldwiper system is switched on, while Zone 2 has no such requirement.However, the driver (being a resident of Zone 2) may not be aware of therequirements of Zone 1. However, according to the present invention, thesystem can detect (using methods described elsewhere in thisapplication) that the vehicle has changed location (i.e., from Zone 2 toZone 1) and set its functions accordingly—with or without the driverbeing aware—so that the driver may abide by all local regulations. Thus,for example, the system according to the present invention may detectwhether the windshield wipers 1304 of the vehicle are turned on (e.g.,using sensor data (such as a windshield wiper switch input—not shown)and output an appropriate signal to operate the lights 1306 of thevehicle such that the operator of the vehicle complies with localrequirements.

Additionally, other information such as seat-belt-buckle sensorinformation and seat-occupant-sensor information (which are known in theart) may be used to determine whether a seat is occupied, and theapproximate size and/or weight of the occupant may be used to inform thedriver whether additional seat belt use is required. A look up table(not shown) may be used. For example, the look-up table may includeinformation indicating that a rear seat passenger under 40 pounds inweight must be buckled in the vehicle's present location. Thus,depending upon location, if it is determined that a rear-seat passengermust be belted, the driver and/or the passengers may be informed of suchrequirements such as shown in FIG. 13B in screen 1310. Other informationsuch a tourism information, general rules (e.g., motor vehicle operatingrules, etc.,) may also be displayed for the user's convenience on adisplay.

The system of the present invention can not only automatically set(depending upon settings) functions according to location, but it mayalso display local requirements on the display to alert the driverand/or passengers of these requirements according to location. Thus, anoperator may be informed via the display whether seatbelts are requiredfor all passengers in the current location. The system of the presentinvention may also alert the driver and/or occupants for example, thatseatbelts are required, by using a vibratory, audio, visual means orother means. For example a vibrator may be located in and/or on aseatbelt anchor part or in a seat to remind a user that seatbelt use isrequired. Thus, if the system of the present invention detects that arear seat passenger is not buckled when required (e.g., using seatoccupancy data and/or seatbelt data obtained via conventional sensors),the alarm system may output a visual alert on the display, and actuatean LED contained in the corresponding anchor part, or use another typeof display, to alert the driver and/or passenger to buckle the seatbelt.

In another embodiment, the vehicle may detect that it is towing anobject (e.g., through sensor data obtained from a trailer harnessconnected to the vehicle's wiring system or by detecting an increasedcurrent draw, etc.,) and may alert the operator to avoid (or to exit)parkways upon which trailer operation is restricted. Thus, the locationof the vehicle may be used by the system of the present invention to setits functions accordingly. However, the system of the present inventionmay also upon detecting a change in operating characteristics of thevehicle, alert the user regardless of location. Thus, if the systemaccording to the present invention detects that a trailer is being towed(e.g., using increased-current information, or load information viaon-board suspension sensors (not shown)), it may display predeterminedinformation without regard to location. This information can includetrailer-towing directions, information indicating a maximum recommendedspeed when towing a trailer (e.g., 55 MPH) and information concerningrecommended routes. For example, the alarm system may obtain dataincluding the temperature of various fluids in the vehicle from on-boardsensors (e.g., wireless and/or wired data transmission), and the alarmsystem can then analyze this data and provide desired information to thedriver. For example, if it is determined that the transmission oiltemperature is beyond specified limits (e.g., beginning to overheat),the alarm system can display a screen informing the driver andoptionally reroute the driver (so that roads more suitable to thevehicle's condition can be used) and/or display map data (e.g., aGPS-navigation-system-type map) on a screen indicating the re-routeddirections. Thus, if the driver is on a hilly high-speed freeway and itis determined that the transmission oil temperature is exceeding apredetermined limit, the system according to the present invention canuse current location information and reroute the driver so thatlow-speed local roads and/or less hilly roads can be used.

The present invention may also analyze tire pressure, temperature,speed, and/or load and output information to the driver. Thisinformation can include information such as, for example, vehiclestatistics, warnings, recommendations, route information, locationinformation etc. Thus, for example, current sensory inputs (e.g., speed,tire temperature and/or pressure, vehicle load, current location, and/orother data), may be compared with a look-up table to determine arecommended operating window. Thus, assuming the driver is driving on afreeway at a speed that exceeds a first predetermined threshold and itis determined that the tire pressure is lower than another predeterminedthreshold and/or its temperature is higher than yet anotherpredetermined threshold, an alert can be generated to inform the user ofthe vehicle, and a proper operating speed and/or rerouted directions maybe recommended (e.g., by informing the driver of this speed). Likewise,when the vehicle exceeds a first predetermined velocity threshold, if itis determined that the air pressure is lower then another predeterminedthreshold, a warning can be generated and displayed to the driverregardless of tire temperature. The system according to the presentinvention may also obtain information relating to the vehicle such as,for example, timing belt condition, and display this information to auser for the user's convenience.

The present invention may also use tire inflation information (obtainedwirelessly through tire sensors or though one or more typical on-boardsystems) and display an appropriate display with or without regard tolocation and operating variables. Thus, if the system according to thepresent invention detects that a tire has low air pressure, the systemcan alert the user of this and inform the user of desired operatingprocedures. Thus, the system of the present invention, may also informthe user to proceed at a speed below a certain setting and to avoidcertain roads (e.g., high-speed freeways). The system according to thepresent invention, may also use map data to reroute a user to avoidcertain routes depending upon vehicle variables. Thus, if a system on avehicle (e.g., a transmission, engine, etc.) or element (e.g., a tire)on the vehicle is not operating correctly (e.g., a transmission isfailing and cannot engage 3^(rd) and 4^(th) gears, a tire is runninglow, a low-speed temporary spare tire is being used, etc.), the systemaccording to the present invention may use this data and/or optionallocation data to inform a driver of the situation and recommend a properoperating procedure and/or may reroute a user (e.g., using map data, GPSdata, etc.) so that the vehicle (equipped with a navigation-capabledisplay) can be operated on roads more suitable to its condition (e.g.,low-speed local roads, roads with proper service (e.g., dealerships)available, etc.).

Thus, according to the present invention, a vehicular alarm system canminimize noise pollution levels and/or increase the safety and/orsecurity of a vehicle and/or its contents, while complying with localordinances and/or regulations. The alarm system may be updatable and canenhance user convenience and safety.

Certain additional advantages and features of this invention may beapparent to those skilled in the art upon studying the disclosure, ormay be experienced by persons employing the novel system and method ofthe present invention, chief of which are that noise and otherenvironmental pollution can be reduced. Other advantages of the presentinvention include enhancing safety of vehicle occupants and increasinguser convenience.

While the invention has been described with a limited number ofembodiments, it will be appreciated that changes may be made withoutdeparting from the scope of the original claimed invention, and it isintended that all matter contained in the foregoing specification anddrawings be taken as illustrative and not in an exclusive sense.

What is claimed is:
 1. A mobile station including a plurality ofcontrollable functions, comprising: a receiver which receives locationinformation; and a controller which: determines the location of themobile station using the location information; sets one or morefunctions of the mobile station based on the location information; andactivates the one or more functions according to the setting.
 2. Themobile station of claim 1, further comprising a speaker to output anaudible signal.
 3. The mobile station of claim 2, wherein the controllerregulates an output of the audible signal.
 4. The mobile station ofclaim 1, wherein the controller displays information relating toregulations corresponding to the location.
 5. The mobile station ofclaim 4, wherein the controller sets the one or more functions basedupon the regulations.
 6. The mobile station of claim 1, wherein the oneor more functions correspond to an audible device function, anignition/run function, a window function, a light function, a lockfunction, a paging function, a privacy function, an energy refillingfunction, and a valet function.
 7. The mobile station of claim 6,wherein the mobile station comprises a vehicle security system.
 8. Themobile station of claim 7, wherein the mobile station disables operationof the vehicle when the controller is in an alarm mode.
 9. A controlstation for a vehicle, comprising: a receiver which receives locationinformation; and a controller which: determines the location of thevehicle using the location information; sets one or more functions ofthe vehicle based on the location information; determines whether to setan alarm of the vehicle; determines whether one or more trigger signalsis detected; and activates the one or more functions based upon thesetting, when it is determined that a trigger signal has been generated.10. The control station of claim 9, wherein the trigger signal isgenerated by at least one of a window sensor, a door sensor, a soundsensor, a movement sensor, and a wireless signal.
 11. The controlstation of claim 9, wherein the controller displays information relatingto regulations corresponding to the location.
 12. The control station ofclaim 11, wherein the controller sets the one or more functions basedupon the regulations.
 13. The control station of claim 9, wherein theone or more functions relate to a horn function, a speaker function, anignition/run function, a window function, a light function, a lockfunction, a paging function, a door function, an energy refillingfunction, a privacy function, and a valet function.
 14. The controlstation of claim 9, wherein the controller outputs informationcorresponding to a present location upon determining that the locationof the vehicle has changed.
 15. The control station of claim 9, whereinthe controller restricts operation of the vehicle when a trigger eventsignal is detected.
 16. A method for controlling functions of a vehicle,comprising: determining, using the controller, the location of thevehicle using the location information; setting, using the controller,one or more functions of the vehicle based on the location information;and activating, using the controller, the one or more functions basedupon the setting.
 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising,activating, using the controller, an alarm and thereafter determiningwhether a trigger event has occurred, wherein the trigger eventgenerated by one or more of an infrared or ultrasonic sensor, a doorsensor, a window sensor, an ignition sensor, a pressure sensor, and amovement sensor.
 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising,activating, using the controller, the one or more functions when it isdetermined that a trigger event has occurred.
 19. The method of claim16, further comprising outputting via a speaker or a display an energyrefilling option when it is detected that the vehicle has entered anenergy refilling area or displaying information relating to regulationscorresponding to the location of the vehicle.
 20. The method of claim19, further comprising, setting, using the controller, the one or morefunctions based upon the regulations.